COMMENT – MIKE McGAHEY

“As an active trade union official before being elected as MSP for Rutherglen, I know what an important, vital role trade unions play in society. Without trade unions, workers’ rights and protections from exploitation would simply not exist.

“It was a real honour to attend the commemorative service for Mick McGahey at the Scottish Parliament on Wednesday. He was a giant of the trade union movement as well as the NUM. Having spent his formative years in Cambuslang and working locally in Gateside Colliery he must count as one of the most influential people to come from the area in recent times.

“His influence continues even 20 years after his death through the legacy of his work with the NUM and STUC “